Method 29 Non-Hg Metals

Determination of Metal Emissions from Stationary Sources

This method is applicable for the determination of metals emissions from stationary sources. This method is considered by most as equivalent to the SW-846 0060 / 6010B series of methods. It may be combined with EPA Method 5 for particulate determination. This method also allows for the determination of particulates from the filter and probe rinses using Method 5 procedures if required.  The method allows for the front half and back half of the sampling train to be analyzed separately or combined following SW-846 Methods 6010B or 6020.

Samples are collected isokinetically using Method 29 train (similar to a Method 5 train) consisting of a quartz filter containing no organic binders and a series of impingers.   The 1st and 2nd impingers are filled with 100mL of a HNO₃/ H₂O₂ solution.  The 3rd impinger is filled with 200-300g of silica gel.   The KMnO₄ impingers noted in the method are needed only for the collection of mercury (Hg).

It is important that no metal be used in the probe, probe liner, filter support, or in the collection brushes used in sample recovery.  Metal parts could serve as a source of contamination of the sample. 

After collection, the contents of all impingers are measured to later assist with the determination of stack moisture.  The filter is folded such that the particulate is on the inside on the filter and placed in a petri dish.  In all the sample collection procedures, it is important to use 100mL of rinsing solution as specified in the method so that the blank correction procedures will be correct.  An acetone rinse of the probe, liner, and front half of the filter holder (if particulates are determined) is collected in a separate container.  This rinse is not collected if particulates are not needed.  The probe, line and front half of the filter holder is rinsed with HNO₃ and collected in a separate container.  The contents of the HNO₃/H₂0₂ impingers and associated HNO₃ rinses of the impingers can be combined into one container or multiple containers if needed for volume. 

The filter, acetone rinse (if collected), and probe rinse are all digested separately with HNO₃ and concentrated HF and then combined for analysis.  This sample represents the front half section of the sampling train.  The HNO₃/H₂0₂ impingers and rinses are digested with HNO₃ and concentrated HF and then analyzed.  Once prepared, the samples can be analyzed using a various techniques including GFAA (graphite furnace atomic absorption), ICP (inductively coupled plasma spectrometry) or ICP-MS.  ICP and ICP-MS are the most common techniques used as they achieve the lowest analyte detection limits and are less time consuming for the laboratory.

The analytes listed in the table below are those listed in the method, however, it is possible to collect use this method to collect and analyze for other metals.